Author Info

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Richard S. Jensen has taught in Christians schools and for ten years ministered as an associate pastor in a local church. In March 2009 his position was cut due to finances. Learning how to trust Christ in the midst of unemployment has helped him better shepherd and counsel others. Currently he works as an independent insurance associate and provides pulpit supply and interim pastoral ministry to churches in southeastern PA.

Author/Artist Review

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Author: Rich JensenLocated in: PennsylvaniaSubmitted: July 19, 2011

Tell us a little about yourself. I taught in Christian schools for seven years and then served as an associate pastor for ten years. I graduated from Indian University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a B.S. in education and from Luther Rice Seminary with an MDiv degree.

What was your motivation behind this project? In March 2009 my associate pastor position was eliminated due to financial reasons. I was not expecting the spiritual and emotional challenges which followed. Again and again I returned to Scripture for encouragement, strength and hope. The project is the compilation of the spiritual lessons I learned along the journey.

What do you hope folks will gain from this project? I am praying God uses this book to bring glory to His name by encouraging others to remain strong in the midst of trials and to see how trials are times when God will work in us in areas like our identity, contentment, joy, humility perseverance and in giving thanks in all circumstances.

How were you personally impacted by working on this project? This project was a personal living out of what the book contains. None of this is purely theory, but has been lived out in the real pain and hardship of joblessness. Not only has the entire project shaped my understanding of trials, but also how to come alongside others who are suffering to be a source of encouragement.

Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? The book brings out several of the men whom have been a source of growth and encouragement - John Piper, John MacArthur, C.J. Mahaney and James MacDonald. In addition, I would also say that many of the Puritans have shaped and influenced my thinking and understanding - such as John Owen, Jeremiah Burroughs, Jonathan Edwards and Charles Spurgeon to name a few.

Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: This book is meant to be a guide book. Using my personal story, the message I want others to hear is this: The ultimate jewel in job loss (or any trial) is the treasure of surpassing worth - Christ in us, the hope of glory. Therefore, just as the beauty of a diamond shines most brilliantly against a dark background, we will shine most brightly as lights before the world against the backdrop of life's struggles.